Given the tight urban confines of Manila, the BYD Seagull is right-sized for the market. It’s being offered with a surprisingly affordable introductory price of just P 898,000. The price already includes both a portable charger and a 7-kW wall box charger. It’s  much lower than its initial estimated price.

Despite its small footprint (3,780 mm x 1,715 mm x 1,580 mm in terms of length, width, and height), the Seagull rides on the BYD e-Platform 3.0. This dedicated NEV platform allows it to have among the most generous wheelbase-to-length ratio among passenger cars; and at 66 percent, it’s even higher than the Dolphin’s 64 percent. Not only does this translate to a surprisingly generous room for five adults, but it maximizes the battery BYD is able to equip. The 2,500 mm wheelbase means having a 30-kWh BYD Blade Battery (Lithium Iron Phosphate) integrated into the floor. This gives it a range of 300 kilometers between charges. With DC fast charging capability, it can top up from 30 to 80 percent in just 30 minutes. A full charge using the wall box takes five hours.

The sole variant of the Seagull comes with an extensive set of exterior features including auto on/off LED headlights, 16-inch alloy wheels with 175/55R16 tires, variable intermittent front wipers, and heated sideview mirrors. It comes in three colors—Apricity White, Delan Black, and the signature color, Sprout Green.

Inside, the Seagull has the same dashboard motif found in other members of BYD’s Ocean family of vehicles. The organic form is complemented by the two-tone color motif. Standard specs include smart keyless entry, a push-button engine start/stop, leather seating, a 7-inch digital gauge cluster, and a 10.1-inch rotating infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto. A wireless charger, automatic climate control, and a 4-speaker system complete the comfort and convenience features.

Powering the Seagull is a single electric motor that drives the front wheels. Max outputs are 75 horsepower and 135 Nm of torque—putting it squarely in line with other sub-B-segment hatchbacks. Yet, thanks to its instantaneous torque afforded by the electric motor, 0 to 50 km/h is done in just 4.9 seconds. Top speed is at a respectable 130 km/h. Driver comfort is assured with its cruise control, four-wheel disc brakes, and an electronic parking brake with auto hold.

It’s the same with safety as the Seagull doesn’t compromise in this front. It comes with a body made up of 61 percent high-strength steel, 6 SRS airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, tire pressure sensors, and a solid list of assistance features such as a rear camera and parking sensors. It shames other small cars in the market (or even those a size larger).

As for warranty, the BYD Seagull comes with a 6-year or 150,000-kilometer bumper-to-bumper warranty, an 8-year or 150,000-kilometer electric motor warranty, and an 8-year or 160,000-kilometer battery warranty.

For more information on the Seagull, click here or scroll below for the full specs. You can also watch our First Impressions video here.